This bill, called the Fewer Floods, Safer Ontario Act, 2025, aims to increase public awareness of flooding risks in Ontario. It designates the fourth week of March each year as Flooding Awareness Week. The bill requires the government to publish flood-related information on a website, including preparedness tips, prevention measures, resources, and FAQs. Additionally, it mandates that this information be mailed to every household in areas without municipal organizations and included with tax bills in the City of Toronto and other municipalities. The goal is to help residents better understand flood risks and ways to protect themselves.
If you live in Ontario, you will see more information about flooding risks and safety each year during Flooding Awareness Week in March. Your local government or the province will send you useful tips and resources about floods. If you live in a rural area without local government, you will also receive this information by mail each year. In cities like Toronto, this flood information will be included with your property tax bill. These efforts aim to help you prepare for possible floods and learn how to reduce damage and costs from flooding events.
The bill does not specify a cost estimate. However, the government will likely need to spend money on creating and updating the website with flood information and mailing materials to households in rural areas, as well as including information with tax bills. Data unavailable.
Supporters say this bill will raise awareness of flood risks and promote safety. By providing clear information and resources, people will be better prepared to protect their homes and belongings. Proponents believe this can reduce the damage and financial costs caused by floods. They argue that education is an important step in adapting to climate change and increasing flooding incidents.
Critics may question whether the government has enough resources or plans to effectively implement these awareness campaigns. Some argue that simply providing information may not lead to meaningful action or behavior change. Others believe that the additional mailing and website efforts could add costs that taxpayers may need to cover, with unclear impact on flood prevention or mitigation. Data unavailable.